By Hank Russell
A bill introduced by U.S. Representative Nick LaLota (R-Rocky Point) passed the House which would provide more money to a memorial and museum which commemorates the events of September 11, 2001.
The House recently passed the 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act with bipartisan support. This bill, LaLota said, would provide between $5 million and $10 million in funding for the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City to support its ongoing maintenance and preserve access for future generations. In addition, the Act would offer free admission to all facilities and museums associated with the memorial and museum for active and retired members of the Armed Forces, registered first responders to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and family members of 9/11 victims.
It would also maintain dedicated free admission hours for the general public at least once a week and allow for annual federal audits of its financial statements.
LaLota sponsored the legislation during the last congressional session when it was introduced by then-U.S. Representative Anthony D’Esposito. Other co-sponsors of the bill included Troy Carter (D-Louisiana), Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas), Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pennsylvania), Andrew Garbarino (R-New York), Dan Goldman (D-New York), Josh Gottheimer (D-New Jersey), Lauren Gillen (D-New York), Tom Kean (R-New Jersey), Jen Kiggans (R-Virginia), Mike Lawler (R-New York), Susie Lee (D-Nevada), Nicole Malliotakis (R-New York), Jerry Nadler (D-New York), Tom Suozzi (D-New York), and Nydia Velázquez (D-New York).
The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is located in New York, New York. It is dedicated to remembering and honoring the nearly 3,000 victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, and the heroes of those tragic events. Through exhibitions, oral histories, and educational programs, the Museum provides an opportunity for reflection and understanding of the impact of 9/11.
“As a lifelong New Yorker and a Naval Officer on active duty on 9/11, I am proud to lead the bipartisan effort to pass the 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act. This legislation honors the fallen, preserves the firsthand experiences of that tragic day, and ensures future generations understand its impact on our nation,” said LaLota. “It is our duty to keep the legacy of the victims, survivors, and heroes alive in the hearts and minds of all Americans. I am honored to have championed this critical bill.”